Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2007-05-25
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
6 pages, 4 figures, 2 tables
Scientific paper
10.1051/0004-6361:20077939
Aims: The planetary system around the M star Gliese 581 consists of a hot Neptune (Gl 581b) and two super-Earths (Gl 581c and Gl 581d). The habitability of this system with respect to the super-Earths is investigated following a concept that studies the long-term possibility of photosynthetic biomass production on a dynamically active planet. Methods: A thermal evolution model for a super-Earth is used to calculate the sources and sinks of atmospheric carbon dioxide. The habitable zone is determined by the limits of biological productivity on the planetary surface. Models with different ratios of land / ocean coverage are investigated. Results: The super-Earth Gl 581c is clearly outside the habitable zone, since it is too close to the star. In contrast, Gl 581d is a tidally locked habitable super-Earth near the outer edge of the habitable zone. Despite the adverse conditions on this planet, at least some primitive forms of life may be able to exist on its surface.Therefore, Gl 581d is an interesting target for the planned TPF/Darwin missions to search for biomarkers in planetary atmospheres.
Bloh von W.
Bounama Ch.
Cuntz Manfred
Franck Siegfried
No associations
LandOfFree
The habitability of super-Earths in Gliese 581 does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with The habitability of super-Earths in Gliese 581, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The habitability of super-Earths in Gliese 581 will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-680119